Viagra
What kind of medication is Viagra?
Viagra is a drug to treat erectile dysfunction in men. The active ingredient is sildenafil which is available as oral tablets (25mg, 50mg, and 100mg).
What is Viagra used for?
Viagra increases the flow of blood to the penis during sexual arousal. This enables a man to obtain an erection. Viagra is also used for other conditions not mentioned in this guide.
Dose
Viagra must be used as prescribed. Never make changes to the dosage without consulting a doctor. Viagra should be taken approximately one hour prior to sexual arousal. This medication should not be used more than once a day. The effects of Viagra can last up to four hours.
Missed Dose
Because Viagra is used when needed, a missed dose is not applicable.
Important information about this medication
Viagra should not be taken by men who are allergic to sildenafil.
Viagra should not be used by men who are using nitrates to treat heart problems.
Prior to taking Viagra, your doctor will need to know if you suffer with any of the following: irregular heart rate, heart disease, if you have suffered a heart attack or stroke in the last six months, congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, coronary artery disease, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, multiple myeloma, stomach ulcer, hemophilia, retinitis pigmentosa, or Peyronie’s disease.
Prior to taking Viagra, you must provide your doctor with details of your medical history. This must include medications that you have used, or are using, as well as any dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal medications.
Viagra has been known to cause a loss of vision, especially in men who have heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and by men older than 50 years of age who smoke.
While using Viagra, do not drink alcohol because alcohol can increase some of Viagra's side-effects. Do not use any other medication to treat erectile dysfunction while using Viagra.
What are the side-effects of this medication?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing problems, swelling (tongue, throat, face or lips), or hives. If any of these symptoms appear, call for medical assistance.
Symptoms of serious side-effects include chest pain, a loss of hearing, ringing in the ears, vision loss, chest pain, pain in the arm or shoulder, sweating, nausea, irregular heart rate, shortness of breath, swelling (of the ankles, feet or hands), fainting, painful erection, or an erection that lasts longer than four hours.
Less serious side-effects that usually occur in the early stages of treatment with this medication are blocked nose, back pain, upset stomach, temporary loss of memory, or flushing of the chest, neck or face.
This medication may cause other side-effects not mentioned above. Any uncomfortable symptoms that persist should be reported to your doctor.
If overdose is suspected
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, irregular heart rate, chest pain, fainting, or light-headedness. Call for emergency help in the case of an overdose.
Storage instructions
Viagra should be stored in a dry, cool place – away from moisture or direct sunlight.
